KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) has urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's administration to uphold its "reformasi spirit" and reject any outdated practices including nepotism.

Muda secretary-general Amir Hadi said the party, which is part of the unity government, reiterates its hope that any current or future appointments of any relatives to a politician will be stopped.

He said the appointment of Nurul Izzah Anwar as the senior economic advisor to the prime minister and Muhammad Iqbal as the special functions officer to the Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Johari Abdul should have not happened during the current government.

"The current government was formed with a burning spirit of "reformasi" not only to eradicate poverty; generate a sustainable economy but also promote good governance in the administration.

"Muda would like to urge the government to continue to adhere to this spirit, and reject any form of outdated practices by the previous government, including the practice of appointing family members in strategic positions.

"Even though Nurul Izzah has the qualifications to hold the position, and despite the pro bono position, it sends the wrong message to the people.

"The practice, if not avoided from now on, will fester and take root," he said in a statement today.

Yesterday, Johari dismissed claims that his son, Muhammad Iqbal was appointed as his special officer following reports online that the Parliament website indicated the appointment.

The appointment was allegedly made shortly after Johari was elected as the Speaker in December last year.

Anwar previously defended the appointment of his daughter, Nurul Izzah as the senior advisor to the prime minister stating the role was without allowance.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/2023/02/876310/unity-government-should-uphold-reformasi-spirit-muda